Work-Related Fatalities by Age

This graph shows accidental workplace deaths per 100,000 farm population rise dramatically after age 60.

Canadian Farmers in their sixties are twice as likely to die in a farm accident as farmers in their fifties.  As we pass age 70, the chances of death in the farm workplace skyrocket to five times the average for a 40-year-old. It should also be pointed out that 98% of these fatalities are males.

This slide shows the tractor is responsible for 52% of fatalities, or by far the majority.  Research is telling us that older farmers are using older tractors without the safety features of recent models, such as ROPS and seat belts.

Being caught in machinery and being struck or crushed by large round bales or falling trees are the second and third most common cause of fatalities.
 
 
 

Most accidents are happening after the cold winter months.  Fatalities begin to increase in April and peaking in the harvest months of August and September.

Trends Over Time

With a slight increase over the years, the annual number of farm-related deaths fluctuated in Canada between 31 in 1992 and 41 in 1994.

Physical conditions can affect judgements and reactions to danger.

Vision: Older eyes need more light to see well, are sensitive to glare and peripheral vision (our ability to see to our side) may decrease.

Hearing: Hearing loss reduces overall alertness, and can lead to serious communication problems. (eg. "Didn't he say turn the power off, not on?")

Fatigue: Fatigue is a major factor in farm accidents. 
 
 

Chronic Illness: Heart or lung diease and diabetes may make it impossible to handle what used to be a normal workday.

Medicationsmay impact on reaction time, hamper reflexes, and diminish alertness. 

Technology: 

• requires rapid response time (electronic and hydraulic controls) and therefore increases stress levels.

The situation is even more stressful if the farm is in the midst of a generational transfer.

• Recognize your limitations. Abilities at age 60 and over are not the same as at age 20.
• Have regular medical, vision and hearing checkups. Wear sunglasses that protect against cataracts. Avoid operating equipment on roadways at dawn and dusk.
• Take frequent breaks. Have a nap during the day.
• Shift seat positions hourly to decrease fatigue and don't spend excessive hours with shaft driven equipment.
• Exercise regularly.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration contributes to fatigue and makes us less aleart.
• Take Care when operating equipment. Reaction time is slower than it once was. Review the operators manual before starting to use a new machine. Be careful working in situations where gases form (eg. silo, decomposing manure sites).
• Farmers should let someone know where they will be working and approximately when they plan to be returning. Consider a cell phone or a security system to be able to contact help quickly.
• It is a good idea for the family to be trained in first aid and CPR.
• Know your limitations. Don't push body and mind past their safe and healthy limits. Don't let any one talk you into doing something you don't feel confident about.

Benefits come with age. Older farmers have the wisdom and experience that many younger folk lack. Use your good judgement and skills to compensate for decreases in reaction and muscle strength.

Most farm accidents are predictable and preventable. Knowing the hazards can reduce inury to you and your family. Make farm safety a part of everything you do, all year long.